Chile vs Mexico: Which Is Cheaper?
Chile is the cheaper country overall — about 26% less than Mexico, or roughly $1,073 versus $1,451 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 2 and 12 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $587 in Chile against $1,109 in Mexico. Chile rates higher on safety (60 vs 38/100). Internet is faster in Chile (344 vs 88 Mbps). Healthcare scores 66 vs 64/100, favouring Chile.
Chile vs Mexico at a glance
| Metric | Chile | Mexico |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,073 | $1,451 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $587 | $1,109 |
| Safety | 60/100 | 38/100 |
| Internet | 344 Mbps | 88 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 66/100 | 64/100 |
| Walkability | 65/100 | 64/100 |
| English spoken | 12% | 13% |
| Avg temperature | 73°F | 77°F |
| Digital nomad visa | No | Yes |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 2 cities in Chile and 12 in Mexico.
Cost range by country
In Chile, monthly costs run from Valparaiso at $960 up to Santiago at $1,089.
In Mexico, monthly costs run from Oaxaca at $800 up to Puerto Vallarta at $1,647.
Chile vs Mexico FAQ
Is Chile or Mexico cheaper to live in?
Chile is cheaper — about $1,073 a month for a single person versus $1,451 — roughly 26% less.
Is Chile or Mexico safer?
Chile scores higher on safety: 60/100 versus 38/100.
Is Chile or Mexico better for retirement?
Chile is the stronger pick for retirees — both cheaper ($1,073/mo) and higher on healthcare (66/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Chile or Mexico?
Chile — it pairs faster internet (344 Mbps) with the lower cost of living ($1,073/mo), the combination most remote workers want.
Is Chile or Mexico better to visit?
Chile is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $1,073 a month for day-to-day costs, and it also rates higher on safety (60/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 2 cities in Chile and 12 in Mexico.
Which should you choose?
On balance, Chile comes out ahead — it leads on a lower cost of living, cheaper rent, higher safety and is the cheaper of the two at $1,073/mo.
Choose Chile for
- a lower cost of living
- cheaper rent
- higher safety
- faster internet
- better healthcare
- better walkability
Choose Mexico for
- a close call on most metrics